Türkiye
The Turkey visa application process varies depending on the applicant’s nationality, length of stay, and purpose of stay. Turkey offers several types of visas: tourist, business, student, work, and more. Find below a detailed overview of the steps to apply for a Turkey visa, as well as links to guide applicants step by step.
1. Determine if you need a visa for Turkey
Before you start the process, it is important to know if you need a visa to enter Turkey. Some countries have a visa exemption or can obtain an electronic visa (e-Visa), while others must go through the Turkish consulate.
– Electronic Visa (e-Visa): Available for citizens of certain countries for tourist or business stays of 30 to 90 days.
– Consular Visa: For nationalities who are not eligible for the e-Visa or who wish to stay in Turkey for a longer period of time for studies, work, or family reasons.
Link to check visa requirements: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkey – Visas
https://www.mfa.gov.tr/visa-information-for-foreigners.en.mfa
2. Types of visas for Turkey
Visas for Turkey are classified into several categories depending on the purpose of the visit:
– Tourist/Business Visa: For short-term visits related to tourism, business, or events.
– Student Visa: For people enrolled in Turkish universities or exchange programs.
– Work Visa: Required for anyone hired by a company in Turkey.
– Residence Visa: For extended stays, such as family reunification or retirement.
– Transit Visa: For those transiting through Turkey to another destination.
Link for more details on visa types: Turkish Visa Types
3. Turkey e-Visa Application
For citizens of certain countries, Turkey offers an electronic visa (e-Visa), which is a quick and easy alternative to applying for a traditional visa. This visa is valid for both tourist and business stays and can be applied for online.
Steps to obtain an e-Visa:
Access the official website: Visit the official website of the Turkish e-Visa.
Fill out the form: Complete the necessary information, including your nationality, travel dates, and passport data.
Make the payment: Fees vary depending on nationality. Payment is made online by credit card.
Receive the e-Visa by email: After approval, you will receive your e-Visa by email within a few minutes or hours.
Link to apply for an e-Visa: Official website of the Turkish e-Visa
4. Consular visa application (for long stays or specific visas)
For stays longer than 90 days or for reasons such as employment, studies, or family reunification, you must apply for a visa at the Turkish consulate. This process usually requires submitting documents in person.
Steps to obtain a visa through the consulate:
Complete the online application form: Access the consular visa application form and complete it with all the necessary information.
Prepare the required documents:
– Valid passport: Valid for at least 6 months after the intended date of entry into Turkey.
– Recent passport photos.
– Round-trip flight ticket.
– Proof of accommodation: Hotel reservation or invitation letter from a resident in Turkey.
– Travel insurance: Covering medical care and repatriation.
– Sufficient funds: Bank statements proving that you have the means to finance your stay.
– Other specific documents: Depending on the type of visa (admission letter for students, employment contract for work visas, etc.).
Make an appointment with the consulate: You will need to submit your application in person at a Turkish consulate.
Pay the visa fee: The fee varies depending on the nationality and the type of visa. You should check the exact cost with the consulate.
Link to apply for a consular visa: Consulate of Turkey – Visa Application
5. Visa application tracking
Once the application is submitted, you can track the status of your visa application via the consulate website or the e-Visa website, depending on the type of visa requested. Processing times vary depending on the type of visa and the applicant’s nationality:
– e-Visa: Usually approved within a few hours.
– Consular Visa: Processing can take between 5 and 15 business days.
Link to track an e-Visa application: Turkey e-Visa Tracking
6. Entry into Türkiye and formalities upon arrival
Upon arrival in Turkey, you will need to present the following documents to the immigration authorities:
– Valid passport with valid visa.
– Printout of e-Visa (if applicable).
– Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or invitation letter).
– Return ticket or travel itinerary.
For work or residence visas, it may be necessary to register with local authorities after arrival.
Link for more details on entering Turkey: Government of Turkey – Information for Travelers
7. Extension of stay in Türkiye
If you wish to extend your stay in Turkey beyond the initial duration of your visa, you can apply for an extension from the local authorities before your visa expires. This procedure varies depending on the type of visa and the desired length of stay.
Link to apply for an extension of stay: Government of Turkey – Visa Extension
Additional resources:
Official portal of e-Visa Türkiye : e-Visa Türkiye
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Türkiye : Visa Information
Consulates of Türkiye : Locate a Consulate
By following our guide or letting us assist you, you can ensure a smooth and quick process for obtaining your Turkey visa. Make sure to prepare all the necessary documents in advance and meet the requirements specific to your nationality to maximize your chances of success.